THREE Bellarine organisations will share in more than $190,000 in state funding to continue their work protecting Port Phillip Bay and the region’s unique coastal environments.<\/p>\n
Bellarine Catchment Network has received the largest share of the funding, securing $157,000 to support the ongoing Bellarine Marine Care Group Project.<\/p>\n
The initiative focuses on community-led stewardship of the coast, encouraging hands-on involvement through beach monitoring, education and habitat protection.<\/p>\n
Deakin University has also been awarded $19,500 for a research project examining bacterial profiles in local waterways connected to the Port Phillip Bay Ramsar site, including Swan Bay.<\/p>\n
Scientists are studying how microscopic communities influence water quality, helping to identify early signs of pollution or ecological change.<\/p>\n
BirdLife Australia has been granted $14,000 for its hooded plover conservation project on the Bellarine, which will help the organisation continue its efforts to protect the vulnerable shorebirds.<\/p>\n
The local hooded plover population faces ongoing threats from habitat disturbance and high visitor activity along the Bellarine’s beaches, particularly during breeding season.<\/p>\n
Bellarine MP, Alison Marchant, said the grants in the Port Phillip Bay Fund reflected the deep community pride shared across the region’s coastal towns.<\/p>\n
“Our Bellarine community cares deeply about protecting our unique coastline and wildlife, and it’s fantastic to see local organisations leading the charge to care for our local environment,” she said.<\/p>\n
“These grants will empower our dedicated volunteers, researchers and conservationists to continue their vital work preserving our beaches and marine life for generations to come.”<\/p>\n
Minister for the Environment Steve Dimopoulos said the projects would help ensure the Bellarine’s beaches and bays remain healthy for future generations.<\/p>\n
“We know how much Victorians love their beaches, that’s why we’re keeping it safe for future generations to enjoy,” he said.<\/p>\n
“We are working hard with community groups and land managers across the state to keep our environment healthy and clean.”<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
THREE Bellarine organisations will share in more than $190,000 in state funding to continue their work protecting Port Phillip Bay and the region’s unique coastal environments. Bellarine Catchment Network has received the largest share of the funding, securing $157,000 to support the ongoing Bellarine Marine Care Group Project. The initiative focuses on community-led stewardship of […]<\/p>\n